debilitating...
Out of context: Reply #12
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Infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK), commonly known as pinkeye, is an economically important and often frustrating disease of cattle. The disease is quite common and highly contagious. A 1993 survey of Kansas cattle producers found IBK to be the second most common disease. A Missouri study found 45.4% of cattle herds to be affected by the disease. Cattle affected by the disease are painful and often become temporarily blind and, therefore, do not consume as much feed. This leads to economic losses due to decreased daily gain and lower weaning weights. The cost of treatment adds to economic losses. A 1984 study estimated that $200 million were lost due to IBK. This is a significant disease to the cattle industry and prevention and control should be of utmost importance. However, current treatment and prevention measures can be unrewarding and often do not circumvent the economic losses.